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Pledge of Allegiance

You teach 6th grade at a small elementary school in a conservative community. It is school policy that at the beginning of the day, all students recite the "Pledge of Allegiance." A new family moves into town, and their 6th grade son is in your classroom. He refuses to recite the pledge, and refuses to be in the same room while the recitation is occurring. What ethical and legal considerations should you consider in dealing with this situation?

Posted on: 09/09/14 | Views: 1644
Solution #1
Top Solution
I would definitely honor the students' belief. I would create a ritual for that student when the pledge is being recited. I would not make a big deal because it could cause me my career.

I agree with this solution. If the student isn't comfortable saying the pledge of allegiance I don't feel the teacher should make a big deal of it. The teacher should allow the student to leave the room, and leave it at that.

I like the idea of respecting the student's mind, as well as still having a career. Plus it may lead to other students mimicking the idea.

I agree with this solution.

I think this is a good idea.

You are totally right! The students have their right to believe however they want and this should not be an issue for the teacher.

I agree with this solution as the student should not be punished for this action

I agree with this. It is the students right to choose what they do in this situation.

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Solution #2
I actually had a student that could not participate in saying the pledge of allegiance because of her religion. She knew that every day she could remain seated or step out in the hall during this time. If students asked, I would explain that different cultures believe different things and we should respect everyone's beliefs.
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Solution #3
First, I would talk with the student and determine whether his religious believes prevent him from reciting the pledge of allegiance. Next, I would talk with his parents to confirm what I have learned from the student. I cannot force the student to recite the pledge. However, I should familiarize myself with the school and district policies in order to determine the best course of action.

It's never good to assume and just allow the student to not participate as others suggested. Since he is new it may just be an act of defiance rather than a political or religious stance. Knowledge is always power so this is the best solution.

This is frustrating for me because I am a strong believer in the pledge of allegiance. I do understand placing the student outside but this situation would make me uncomfortable.

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Solution #4
It is the students right to choose whether or not they wish to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The only thing I would consider is that since the school is in a conservative community that the students may make fun of the boy based on his beliefs to not recite the "Pledge of Allegiance". If this occurs the teacher may have to address the issue so that the students understand that the Pledge isn't mandatory.
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Solution #5
Although the reciting the pledge is a moment to reflect and honor those who've worked to ensure our country maintains its liberty, it is not a reprehensible offense if students choose not to participate.
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Solution #6
You should consider the cultural and religious backgrounds of these students and their family customs. Perhaps this student does not agree with the school policy and should attend a different school. There are many factors and angles to consider and think upon.
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Solution #7
It is not mandatory to have to recite the "Pledge of Allegiance", with freedom of speech a students has the right to recite this or not. No one can make this student do something he/she does not want to do.
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Solution #8
It could be against the student's culture in some way, so I would talk to administration.
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Solution #9
You should definitely contact a school administrator and report the behavior. The child might be refusing because of religious or home circumstances. Conferencing with the parents after discussing with the students and administrator would be the steps I suggest to follow.

I dont think that this is an administration issue. If the student does not want to stand for the pledge, then that is their choice and they don't need to give a reason. They are entitled to choose. Yes, the parent should be informed of the situation, but it isnt an issue.

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